Description of Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold)

Caltha palustris is marsh marigold, a native marginal that starts the season with bright yellow spring flowers. It’s one of the best early plants for bog gardens and pond edges.

Appearance

It forms clumps of rounded leaves and produces glossy yellow flowers in early spring. It usually stays 20 to 40cm tall. After flowering, leaves bulk up and fill space near the waterline.

Care Guide

It needs wet roots, especially in spring. If the soil dries hard in summer, it can die back early.

Sun: Full sun to part shade.
Soil: Wet soil or shallow margins.
Water: Keep saturated, especially in spring.
Division: Divide after flowering if you want more plants.
Tidy: Remove old leaves as they fade.

Plant it where taller summer plants will not swamp it straight away.

Suitability for Bog Garden

This suits bog gardens and pond shelves where soil stays wet. It’s great near the front so you see the early flowers.

Pair it with later plants like irises so the space stays busy after spring.

FAQ

When does it flower?
Early spring.

Is it native?
Yes, it’s native in the UK.

Can it grow in water?
Yes, in shallow water.

Will it die back in summer?
It can if the soil dries out.